Changes and refunds

Cancellation options

Refund outcomes depend on timing. Review the reservation policy before making a change so you do not accidentally move from a flexible option into a non-refundable one.

What to do now

Use the right next step before the issue gets harder to untangle.

The 48-hour window matters

Many guest-friendly policies start with a short free-cancellation window after booking, then tighten closer to check-in.

Modification can beat cancellation

Changing dates may preserve more value than cancelling outright when the trip is still likely to happen.

After check-in is a different path

Once a stay has started, refund decisions usually rely on documented issues rather than standard cancellation windows.

Recommended order

Three actions that keep the case clear.

  1. Open the reservation and review the cancellation policy shown at booking.
  2. Compare whether a date change, shortened stay, or full cancellation best matches the situation.
  3. If the issue involves safety or a listing mismatch, document it before you cancel.
Guided reading

Practical guidance for this topic.

How refund timing usually changes as check-in approaches

The closer a stay is to arrival, the more important the exact policy language becomes.

When to request a modification instead of a cancellation

If the guest still plans to travel, a reschedule can be simpler than refunding and rebooking from scratch.

What to document if you need an exception review

Medical notes, travel disruption notices, or listing-issue evidence make manual review clearer.